Cut Glass & Sterling Silver Inkwell

This cut glass and sterling silver inkwell features a heavy, high-quality molded and wheel-cut crystal base paired with a detailed sterling silver hinged lid.

Description

• The Body: The heavy, clear glass reservoir is formed with a square-to-rounded shape, featuring deep vertical flutes or panels. The base features an intaglio or wheel-cut floral and starburst pattern.
• The Silver Lid: The top is capped by an ornate, paneled sterling silver lid decorated in a rich repoussé and chased floral scrollwork design. The apex of the lid bears an engraved period monogram (initials monogram).
• The Collar & Markings: The collar of the silver mount contains a working hinge and is clearly stamped with the word “STERLING” alongside the design/pattern number “D456”.

Origin, Maker, and Date

• Where was it made?

It was made in the United States. The explicit use of the stamp “STERLING” (rather than European hallmarks such as British lion passant) is characteristic of American silver production standards in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

• Who made it?

While the exact corporate maker is designated by the factory production or pattern stock number D456—frequently utilized by American silver hollowware manufacturers of the period (such as the Watson Company, Gorham, or Webster Company)—the specific maker’s punch corresponds to American silver smithing traditions specializing in combining cut-glass novelties and desk sets.

• When was it made?

It dates to around 1890–1915. The heavy cut-glass style, bulbous repoussé hinged cap, and ornate floral scrolling are quintessential hallmarks of high-end desk accessories produced during the height of the American Arts & Crafts and Brilliant Periods of cut glass.